Category: Parenting

Whether you’re a new parent or have been raising kids for a while, a little extra help and guidance is never lost on parents who understand the challenge. Parenting courses can be a great way to learn new strategies, connect with other parents, and feel more confident in your role.  And when these courses are online, that makes it all the more convenient to sign up.

There are four types of parenting styles, and everyone gravitates to one style or another. Not all of these methods of parenting are positive, some are even harmful, but we’re all human and often don’t recognize our mistakes until much later.

Online Parenting Courses and Resources

Perhaps you feel ill-equipped to be a parent, or maybe you were raised by a mother or father who had significant flaws, and all you know for sure is that you definitely don’t want to repeat their mistakes. Parenting classes and online courses power you to make a brave step forward to better parenting. So, welcome!

Here are some of the top parenting courses online, each with a link so you can read more about them and sign up.

1. Empowered Parenting: Boosting School Engagement

Do you want to strengthen your connection with your child’s school, teachers, and peers? This course was created with an understanding that being an engaged parent can lead to better academic outcomes, enhanced social development, and increased overall success for your child.

What You Will Learn:  The “Empowered Parenting” course is designed to equip you with practical strategies, effective techniques, and valuable insights to increase parent involvement in your school experience.

Why Strive for School Engagement?

Created by Eric Robinson, the author of “The missing Link”, is a former school social worker and college professor. He understand the dynamics of parent-school relationships.  This course is the definitive guide on how to increase parent involvement in your school. You’ll gain access to actionable tips and interactive exercises to help you effectively apply what you’ve learned.

Enjoy the flexibility of learning at your own pace, anywhere and anytime, through our user-friendly online platform.  Unlock the keys to successful parent-school collaboration!

Enroll in Empowered Parenting

2. Positive Parenting Solutions

If you’re looking to develop a more positive relationship with your kids, Positive Parenting Solutions might be the course for you. Led by parenting expert Amy McCready, this course offers strategies for reducing power struggles and building cooperation within your family.

This parenting class is designed to give you actionable tools that can lead to lasting, positive changes in your household.  Check out Positive Parenting Solutions

3. The Parenting Junkie: The Hi Fam Studio (formerly Present Play)

Avital Schreiber-Levy, also known as The Parenting Junkie, offers a course called Present Play. It’s all about using play as a tool for connection and learning, helping you to foster a positive, stress-free environment at home.

Encouraging creativity and mindfulness, this parenting class makes it a great fit for parents who value playful learning.  Sign Up Here

4. Hand in Hand Parenting: Parenting by Connection

This course offers a unique approach to parenting that focuses on connection as the foundation for a healthy parent-child relationship, as well as early educators. You’ll learn about listening tools, setting limits with love, and helping your child process emotions.

This one is particularly effective for parents looking to strengthen their emotional bond with their children through empathy and active listening. Check out Hand in Hand Parenting

5. Circle of Security Parenting

Circle of Security Parenting focuses on the emotional bond between you and your child, aiming to help you better understand your child’s needs and create a secure attachment. It’s based on decades of research and is highly recommended for parents who want to deepen their connection with their kids.

The insights provided in this parenting class can be transformative for building trust and emotional safety within your family. Explore Circle of Security Parenting

6. Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids

Dr. Laura Markham’s course is based on her best-selling book of the same name. This course is perfect for parents who want to raise emotionally intelligent kids and maintain a peaceful home environment. It’s packed with practical tips and is easy to follow.

By integrating these practices, you can expect a more harmonious and understanding relationship with your children. Discover Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids

7. Nurturing Parenting Programs

Nurturing Parenting offers a variety of programs that cater to different age groups and family needs. Their approach is based on empathy, self-worth, and empowerment, making it a great option for parents who want to nurture these qualities in their children.

These online courses are adaptable and can be tailored to suit your family’s specific needs and dynamics. Explore Nurturing Parenting Programs

8. The Ultimate Guide to Modern Parenting Ebook

An alternative to taking a full parenting course, The Ultimate Guide to Modern Parenting ebook is a comprehensive resource crafted for today’s parents  to read at their own pace.  It’s for those seeking practical insights and effective strategies in their current everyday life raising kids.

This in-depth guide covers a wide range of topics, including positive discipline, effective communication, fostering a growth mindset, and navigating the digital age with your children. Authored by seasoned parenting experts, the ebook provides evidence-based advice and actionable tips.

From toddler tantrums to teen challenges, the guide addresses parenting concerns at every stage.  Learn more!

9. The Incredible Years

Designed for parents of young children, The Incredible Years offers strategies for promoting social and emotional skills in your kids. It’s especially great for parents dealing with challenging behaviors. There are also teacher training programs.

This program’s hands-on approach makes it easy to implement techniques that can lead to long-term improvements in your child’s behavior. Discover The Incredible Years

10. Parenting with Love and Logic

This course teaches parents how to raise responsible kids by using logical consequences and letting kids make their own choices within limits. It’s a well-rounded program that covers a lot of ground.

By fostering decision-making and accountability, this course helps you equip your children with the skills they need to navigate life’s challenges. Find out more about Love and Logic

11. Online Parenting Center

Here you can discover recognized and court-endorsed parenting programs, starting at just $34.99.  You can choose from self-paced or set-paced options, with courses ranging from 4 to 52 hours or weeks. Programs are developed by certified specialists and meet the highest standards in the U.S. and Canada.

This platform offers both convenience and credibility, making it a reliable resource for diverse parenting needs. Explore Online Parenting Center

12. Triple P – Positive Parenting Program

The Triple P program is one of the most well-researched parenting programs in the world. It offers practical advice that can be adapted to your unique situation, making it a versatile choice for any parent.

With a focus on flexibility, this program empowers you to find the right balance of parenting strategies that work best for your family. Learn more about Triple P

Parenting Courses Online

Your Parenting Journey Begins Here. Whether you’re just starting out on your parenting journey or are looking to refine your skills, online parenting courses provide an invaluable resource for parents at every stage.

Courses are designed to train parents on how to build stronger connections with your child, navigate the challenges of modern parenting, and foster a nurturing environment at home.

From understanding your child’s developmental stages to mastering effective communication and discipline strategies, these courses offer tailored approaches that cater to a wide range of parenting styles and needs.

By enrolling in these parenting courses, you’re not just learning how to manage tough situations; you’re also gaining the confidence to approach parenting with empathy, patience, and understanding.

No matter your parenting philosophy, you’ll be equipped with the tools and insights to help you grow alongside your child, ensuring that both of you thrive.

Your parenting journey is unique, and these online courses are here to support you every step of the way. Embrace this opportunity to learn, connect, and evolve as a parent, and start building a stronger, more harmonious relationship with your child today.

You want to make sure your newborn clothes for the weather because you do not have direct control over their thermostat. Every season has its concerns, and baby clothes should be adapted to suit each one. The right outfit can keep your baby comfortable and safe, whether it’s bundling up in winter or staying cool in the summer.

This is a comprehensive guide that will help you decide how to dress your baby during different seasons so they are safe and feel warm throughout the year.

Dressing Your Newborn for Winter

However, winter is a cold season and to ensure that your newborn will remain warm throughout the day; here are tips for newborn baby clothes during colder months:

Layering is Key

In the winter, layering is key to keeping your baby warm and being able to easily adjust. Layer 1 – Long Sleeve Onesies for Baby Top with a warm sweater or fleece top and snowsuit or insulated jacket to suit the weather.

Warm Hats and Mittens

The heads and extremities of newborns lose heat very rapidly, which is why you should keep them covered. Select a soft and warm hat with ear coverage as well as mittens to keep little fingers from getting that extra chill. Get mittens that are easy to put on and take off.

Footed Pajamas

Have the sweetest little toosies in town with these socks that are perfect for keeping those baby toes cozy on cold nights. Choose a cozy material for pajamas when you can in sth like fleece or flannel. Preserve a close-fitting sit, but no longer squeeze and hilarate one’s toes.

Dressing Your Newborn for Summer

Furthermore, summer clothes for your little one need to be light and breathable in order that they finish up keeping cold and comfy all day long. Here’s what to focus on:

Light and Breathable Fabrics

Wear lightweight baby clothes in summer made of cool fabric like cotton. In warmer weather, you will want to choose cotton onesies, short-sleeved bodysuits, and lightweight blankets.

Sun Protection

Wear your new baby in little light longsleeve shirts and with hats that have brims to provide shade from the sun. Using a stroller cover or sunshade when you are outside is also recommended.

Stay Hydrated

Feed and comfort your baby, to keep them well hydrated. Though the water intake of babies is less than adults, it requires a cool space to grow them better. Make sure that their room is not too hot and they sleep in suitable new born baby clothes to prevent overheating.

Style Your Infant with Respecting Spring

Spring weather is never constant, so you will also want to be sure your bags contain the proper gear for warm or cool temperatures. Here’s how to manage:

Layering for Changing Temperatures

Since the weather is warm during spring, you never know what temperature it will be as a day progresses; therefore layering is key. Begin with a thin onesie as well as place on an additional long-sleeved t-shirt or even coat. Have a light jacket or hoodie on hand for when it gets cooler.

Breezy Fabrics

Choose fine, breathable materials for baby clothes in warm weather. Spring Blouse — event such as this cotton-blend with drape(intended for moderate stretch knits): Another woven optional, 45% Polyester,10% Spandex, Or a lighter weight jersey is great for spring and can be layered. Wear layers that can be put on or removed based on the climate. Spring is a time for lightweight, breathable fabrics. Visit A Little Lacey Website to shop a variety of soft and breezy fabrics for your newborn, ensuring they stay comfortable all season long.

Light Hats and Sunglasses

The sunlight is more intense in spring, so protect your baby´s eyes with a soft and cute pair of baby sunglasses as well as a brimmed hat. This would block their eyes and delicate skin from intense sunrays.

Fall: Dressing Your Newborn

The fall is a box of crayons in weather form. Well, just what are you supposed to dress your baby in during this season of transition?

Transitional Layers

Since Autumn is a true transitional season layers are necessary as weather can change from day to night. Consider using a onesie with a few layered long-sleeved shirts or lightweight sweaters. When it starts to cool off add a puffer or fleece over top.

Warm Footwear

During cold weather, baby girl socks or booties will keep those little feet warm and cozy. The focus should be on something soft or insulated that will give their feet warmth without squeezing them.

Cozy Blankets

Blanket season is the best! You may even want to snuggle your LO up in a soft warm blanket for extra comfort during naps or on the go. Check to see if it is light so that you do not overheat — but yet keep warm.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect infant outfits that your newborn can wear throughout all seasons will mean an equilibrium between comfort, warmth, and protection. Baby clothes are often relatively simple, lightweight, and breath well but the warm layers of clothing to be worn need careful selection. From winter’s icy grip to summer’s sultry heat, spring’s swing from one extreme then back again to fall and its cool breezes: the appropriate clothing will ensure your little one isn’t too hot or cold.

Isn’t nursery shopping so exciting? It’s the perfect way to make the fact that you’re having a baby feel more real than it already is. Filled with excitement and expectation, there are a number of things on the nursery checklist that you need to tick off to consider yourself well-prepared, one of which is a cot and its mattress.

Now, choosing a cot has its own factors to consider, but it doesn’t matter what cot you choose if the mattress you buy doesn’t suit it. So, to help you make the right choice, here’s a guide on how to choose a cot mattress for your baby.

A perfect fit

The number one rule to follow when buying a cot mattress is to make sure that it fits into the cot perfectly. This means that the mattress shouldn’t have any gaps on the side that your child can slip into or roll over in. A tight-fitting mattress will reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome significantly, so check the measurements of the cot before and by a mattress that fits it perfectly.

Choosing the size

In Australia, the standard mattress size for a cot is 130x69cm and is usually rectangular. However, you can get smaller or larger cots depending on your preference. A smaller cot mattress will be around 108x53cm. Finding the right cots for baby is crucial for their safety and comfort. From traditional wooden cots to modern portable options, there’s a wide variety to choose from.

Regardless of these sizes, some cots require you to find mattresses that have a custom size. Again, we can’t stress enough that the mattress needs to fit the cot perfectly. So, check the cot measurements thoroughly and buy a mattress that fits it well.

It needs to be easy to clean

Babies can be pretty messy. Whether it’s a spit-up or a nappy accident, you don’t want it to seep into their mattress, staining it and making it a breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid this, try to find a baby mattress that’s easy to clean or even partially waterproof.  Having one that’s machine washable is also a bonus. If you can’t find one, then adding a waterproof cover to it is the next best thing.

It needs to be firm

Baby mattresses also need to be reasonably firm but also comfortable. While you baby sleeps, the mattresses shouldn’t be so soft that they sink into it. If this is the case, they’ll struggle to regulate their heat and might find it easier to roll. Likewise, a firm mattress provides better support for the developing bodies.

Mattress materials

Most baby mattresses are made from latex foams, some of which have coil springs. The material is also designed to be breathable to help your baby regulate their heat so they don’t get too hot or cold in the evenings. Ideally, you’d want to find a hypoallergenic mattress so your baby isn’t exposed to excess germs or irritations.

How to find the right mattress for your baby

It helps to have an idea of what mattress you want for your little one before you hit the shops, so here are four types of mattresses that you can choose from. The features and extras are left to your discretion:

Hypoallergenic

We’re always pro hypoallergenic mattresses because they significantly reduce the potential for your child’s skin to act up from an allergic reaction to the mattress’s materials. However, there is a downside to these mattresses; they can be considered quite expensive.

Memory foam

We all love memory foam in our beds, so why not get it for your baby, too? Memory foam mattresses are a popular option. They offer comfort and support, but they might not provide the firmness a newborn needs to sleep.

Coil Sprung

Coil mattresses have been around for decades and have come a long way since they were invented. By buying a coil-sprung mattress, you’re making a safe choice. They’re made with durable foam and are reasonably firm and comfortable for your baby. However, over time, the fabric begins to perish, allowing the springs to poke through the fabric, which definitely doesn’t bode well for your baby.

Pocket Innerspring

Our final choice is the pocket innerspring mattress. These mattresses are very similar to coil-sprung mattresses. However, they aren’t connected; rather, they’re all capsulated in their own pocket, which solves the problem of them pushing through the fabric. Plus, this design also offers your baby a firm, comfortable, and supportive mattress while reducing the risk of being too soft or posing a SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) risk. That said, the importance of choosing the right size still stands.

Final Thoughts

It’s every parent’s desire to give their child the most out of life. From when they are born, you can start by giving them a comfortable and safe place to sleep.  Follow these tips above and they’ll help you choose a cot mattress for your little one. Happy shopping!

Parenting is a universal journey, shared by millions, yet each experience is deeply personal. While certain truths about raising children resonate with most parents, the dynamics within every family are unique. Each parent brings their own perspective, and every child presents different challenges.

There’s no single method that works for everyone.  With countless books offering advice on child-rearing, finding the right ones can feel like information overload.

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That’s why we’ve curated a list of top parenting books that have earned high praise from educators, psychologists, and, most importantly, parents.

Best 12 Parenting Books

Whether you’re navigating the early years or grappling with the complexities of adolescence, these books offer invaluable insights to guide you on your journey. Of course, this is not a definitive list on parenting.  But we hope it’s a good starting point for finding the tools you need for your unique situation. At the very least, may it open our eyes to the wealth of knowledge available at our local libraries, bookstores, or online.

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1.  Parenting from the Inside Out

How A Deeper Self-Understanding Can Help You Raise Children Who Thrive
by Daniel J. Siegel and Mary Hartzell

In Parenting from the Inside Out, Siegel and Hartzell dive deep into the connection between a parent’s self-awareness and their ability to parent effectively. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding your own emotions, triggers, and past experiences to create a more mindful and empathetic approach to parenting. It’s a transformative read for anyone looking to break free from negative patterns and foster a more connected and nurturing relationship with their children.

2.  The Explosive Child

A New Approach For Understanding And Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children
by Ross W. Greene

The Explosive Child offers a compassionate and practical approach to dealing with children who have difficulty managing their frustration and often exhibit explosive behavior. Greene introduces the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model, which focuses on understanding the underlying causes of challenging behavior and working together with your child to find solutions. This book is particularly helpful for parents dealing with oppositional or easily frustrated children and offers strategies where conversations can take place in a calm  manner.

3.  Mind in the Making

The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs
by Ellen Galinsky

Ellen Galinsky’s Mind in the Making identifies seven critical life skills that are essential for children’s success in school and life, such as focus, self-control, perspective-taking, and communication. Galinsky draws on the latest research in child development and provides practical tips and activities to help parents nurture these skills in their children. The book is both insightful and actionable, offering a roadmap for fostering essential qualities that will benefit children throughout their lives.

4.  Good Inside

A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be
by Dr. Becky Kennedy

Good Inside is a refreshing and empathetic take on modern parenting. Dr. Becky, as she’s known to her followers, combines her expertise as a clinical psychologist with a compassionate approach that emphasizes the inherent goodness in every child. The book offers practical strategies for addressing challenging behaviors while maintaining a strong, loving connection with your child. Dr. Becky focuses on understanding the emotions driving your child’s behavior and provides tools for responding in ways that reinforce their sense of security and self-worth. Good Inside is an empowering read for parents who want to approach parenting with more empathy, patience, and positivity.

5. I Forgive You for Your Diaper

at 3 AM
by A. Parent

I Forgive You for Your Diaper is a witty and heartfelt take on the rollercoaster ride of early parenthood. With a mix of humor and vulnerability, the author captures the sleepless nights, the endless diaper changes, and the profound love that keeps you going despite exhaustion. This book is a relatable guide that acknowledges the real challenges new parents face. Through funny anecdotes and honest reflections, I Forgive You for Your Diaper provides comfort and reassurance, reminding parents that it’s okay to laugh, cry, and find forgiveness in those 3am moments. Perfect for parents looking for humor and validation in their everyday chaos.

6. The Whole-Brain Child

12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind
by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson

If you’re looking to understand how your child’s brain works and how you can better connect with them, The Whole-Brain Child is a must-read. Siegel and Bryson masterfully break down complex neuroscience into simple, actionable strategies that help you nurture your child’s emotional and intellectual development. The book offers practical tips for integrating the left and right hemispheres of the brain, helping kids manage their emotions and build resilience. It’s a perfect blend of science and practical advice that any parent can apply.

7.  The Gift of Failure

How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed
by Jessica Lahey

The Gift of Failure is a thought-provoking book that challenges the idea of overprotective parenting. Jessica Lahey, an educator and parent, argues that allowing children to experience failure and learn from it is crucial for their development. The book provides guidance on how to step back, give children more autonomy, and encourage them to develop resilience, problem-solving skills, and independence. It’s an empowering read for parents who want to raise confident, capable, and self-reliant children.

8.  The 5 Love Languages of Children

The Secret of Loving Children Effectively
by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell

Understanding how your child gives and receives love is crucial for building a strong, supportive relationship. The 5 Love Languages of Children explores the concept that each child has a primary love language—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, or physical touch. Chapman and Campbell provide practical tools to help parents identify and speak their child’s love language, ensuring that they feel deeply loved and understood. This book is a game-changer for parents looking to strengthen their bond with their kids.

9.  How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Communication is at the heart of every parent-child relationship, and How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk is the ultimate guide to mastering it. Faber and Mazlish offer effective techniques for fostering open, respectful dialogue with your children. Their strategies are not only practical but also rooted in empathy, helping parents understand their child’s perspective while expressing their own needs clearly. This book has been a go-to for parents for decades, and it’s easy to see why.

10.  Simplicity Parenting

Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids
by Kim John Payne with Lisa M. Ross

With kids growing up in an environment of constant stimulation and endless choices, Simplicity Parenting offers a refreshing approach to raising children. Payne advocates for simplifying your child’s environment, routines, and schedule to reduce stress and enhance their emotional well-being. The book provides actionable steps for decluttering your child’s life—both physically and mentally—allowing them to focus on what truly matters. It’s a compelling read for parents who want to create a more peaceful, balanced, and meaningful family life.

11.  Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child

The Heart of Parenting
by John Gottman and Joan DeClaire

Emotional intelligence is a key predictor of success and happiness, and Raising An Emotionally Intelligent Child by renowned psychologist John Gottman provides a comprehensive guide to fostering this critical skill in your child. The book introduces the concept of “emotion coaching,” a technique that helps parents guide their children through difficult emotions and develop a healthy emotional toolkit. Gottman’s approach is grounded in research and offers practical, easy-to-follow strategies for helping your child manage their feelings effectively.

12.  No-Drama Discipline

The Whole-Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind
by Daniel J. Siegel with Tina Payne Bryson

Discipline is one of the trickiest aspects of parenting, and No-Drama Discipline by Siegel and Bryson offers a compassionate and effective approach. The book shifts the focus from punishment to teaching, helping parents understand the root cause of their child’s behavior and how to guide them towards better choices. By emphasizing connection before correction, No-Drama Discipline helps parents build trust and mutual respect with their children, leading to a more peaceful and cooperative home environment.

Building Your Parenting Library

Each of these books offers unique insights and practical tools that can make a real difference in your parenting journey. Whether you’re looking to improve communication, foster emotional intelligence, or create a more peaceful home, these reads have something valuable to offer. Investing time in understanding your child’s needs—and your own—can transform your parenting experience and help you build a stronger, more connected family.

So, if you’re ready to enrich your parenting toolkit, any of these books would be an excellent place to start.